Top tips for a successful audition

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Planning on applying to AYO for 2026? Here’s everything you need to know.

Ready to take your love of music to the next level? In 2026, the Australian Youth Orchestra offers exceptional opportunities for young musicians across Australia. In our recent Applications Information Session webinar a panel of AYO staff and current participants shared invaluable advice for young musicians preparing their applications. This session offered practical insights into the audition process, program options, and how to make the most of your AYO experience.

What to apply for in 2026

AYO offers a range of programs designed to support young musicians, composers, sound engineers, and arts administrators at various stages of their development.

Our specialised training pathways have been created to nurture the musical development of gifted young instrumentalists, from school-aged musicians to those on the verge of a professional career. Alongside renowned performance programs, we offer inventive and hands-on courses for aspiring composers, arts administrators, sound engineers and music journalists aged 16 to 30.

Instrumental programs you can apply for in 2026 include:

• AYO Symphonists (formerly Young Symphonists) 5 to 12 April in Canberra
• National Music Camp – Orchestral Program – 5 to 18 January in Adelaide
• Australian Youth Orchestra (two seasons including a performance at Sidney Myer Bowl)

Non-orchestral programs offered in 2026 include:

• National Music Camp – Composition
• National Music Camp – Media & Communication
• National Music Camp – Orchestral Management
• National Music Camp – Sound Production

Top tips for a successful audition

1. Understand the Process

Warren Lenthall, AYO’s Director of Operations, recommends firstly heading to the AYO website, where applicants can create an account via the community portal. The system will guide you through eligibility and available programs based on your age and instrument.

“We strongly recommend that you tick every single box that you’re eligible for,” Warren advises. “Even if you’re not thinking about it right now, consider the non-performance programs – they might be your avenue into a different area of the industry.”

2. Prepare your audition thoughtfully

AYO requires video auditions for instrumental applicants. Warren shared several technical and strategic tips:

• Record multiple takes over a few days and choose the best one.
• Each video must be recorded in one continuous take – no editing.
• Ensure you’re clearly visible and the audio is clean and undistorted.
• Use your phone if needed – modern devices often provide sufficient quality.

“Take some time to go through and make sure that you check these things. It’s important that you’ve gone to that effort so the audition panel can do their job easily,” said Warren.

3. Don’t underestimate the excerpts

In the audition applicants must perform a set of AYO orchestral excerpts and a short piece of their choice for most instruments. AYO CEO Kimberly Harding emphasised that excerpts are just as important as the own-choice piece.

“Put as much effort, if not more, into the excerpts. They’re not just filler – they’re a key part of how we assess your musical maturity and technical ability.”

Kimbali Harding

Flautist Ami Humphreys, a flautist and current member of the AYO flagship orchestra, agreed:

“You should be approaching the excerpts thinking, ‘Why did they choose this?’ It might be a line from a symphony you’ve never heard, but it’s there for a reason.”

They also stressed the importance of rhythmic precision:

“You can sound beautiful, but if you miss a beat rest, it really sticks out. You have to be a bit pedantic and strict with yourself.”

Insights from AYO Participants

Ami joined AYO in 2025 after a previous unsuccessful audition. They participated in 2025 National Music Camp and the Flagship Orchestra, and are now preparing for the AYO International Tour.

“Even the year I didn’t get in, I learned a lot—how to make audition recordings, how to be organized, how to set up a camera. It’s all valuable.”

Hanae Wilding, a violist and composer, completed the Sound Production course at National Music Camp. Though primarily a performer, Hanae discovered a passion for audio engineering through AYO.

“Apply for everything. You never know what you’ll learn. I didn’t expect to love sound production, but it’s opened new doors for me.”

Hanae Wilding

Ready to Apply?

AYO is committed to accessibility. We support  musicians aged 12 and up, with scholarships available and application fees waived for all First Nations applicants. Audition excerpts are freely available here,but our advice is don’t leave your application to the last minute! You can start and save at any time.

“If you get in, we’ll make it happen for you,” Kimberly assured. “We don’t want cost or geography to be the reason you miss out.”

Learn more about AYO programs: ayo.com.au/programs

Start your application: ayo.com.au/apply

Questions? Contact the team at info@ayo.com.au